Reflection of Parabolas: Find the Sum of Coefficients - POTW #406 Feb 27th, 2020

  • MHB
  • Thread starter anemone
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In summary, the formula for reflecting a parabola is (x-h)^2 = 4p(y-k), where (h,k) is the vertex of the original parabola and p is the distance from the vertex to the focus. The sum of coefficients in a reflected parabola can be found by using the formula p = (a+b)/2, where a and b are the original coefficients of the parabola. This determines the orientation and shape of the parabola. A positive sum of coefficients results in a parabola opening upwards, while a negative sum of coefficients results in a parabola opening downwards. The reflection of a parabola has real life applications in designing curved mirrors, creating parabolic
  • #1
anemone
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MHB
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Here is this week's POTW:

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The parabola with equation $y=ax^2+bx+c$ and vertex $(h, k)$ is reflected about the line $y=k$. This results in the parabola with equation $y=dx^2+ex+f$. Find $a+b+c+d+e+f$.

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  • #2
Congratulations to the following members for their correct solution!

1. castor28
2. MegaMoh

Solution from castor28:
If the generic point of the reflected parabola is $(x,z)$, we have $y+z=2k$. This gives:
$$
y+z = (ax^2+bx+c) + (dx^2+ex+f) = 2k
$$
for all $x$. Taking $x=1$ gives:
$$
a+b+c+d+e+f = 2k
$$
 

1. What is a parabola?

A parabola is a type of curve that is formed by the intersection of a plane and a cone. It is a symmetrical curve that can be either concave or convex, depending on the direction of its opening.

2. How do you reflect a parabola?

To reflect a parabola, you must first identify the axis of symmetry, which is a vertical line that passes through the vertex of the parabola. Then, you can use the formula y = -ax^2 + bx + c to find the reflected parabola, where a is the coefficient of the x^2 term, b is the coefficient of the x term, and c is the constant term.

3. What is the significance of finding the sum of coefficients in a reflected parabola?

The sum of coefficients in a reflected parabola can tell you whether the parabola is opening up or down. If the sum is positive, the parabola opens upward, and if the sum is negative, the parabola opens downward.

4. How can the sum of coefficients be used to determine the direction of a parabola's reflection?

The sum of coefficients can be used to determine the direction of a parabola's reflection by looking at the sign of the sum. If the sum is positive, the parabola will be reflected upwards, and if the sum is negative, the parabola will be reflected downwards.

5. Can the sum of coefficients be used to determine the exact point of reflection for a parabola?

No, the sum of coefficients alone cannot determine the exact point of reflection for a parabola. Other factors, such as the vertex and axis of symmetry, must also be taken into account to determine the exact point of reflection.

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